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Shaw names first non-family president

May 2, 2013

Caption

Tom Shaw (left) and John Rung.

DIXON – John Rung was named today as president of Shaw Media and was elected to its Board of Directors at the company’s annual meeting in Chicago.

Rung, 50, was previously senior vice president and chief operating officer of the company. He will continue in his role as publisher of the Northwest Herald, Shaw’s flagship publication in Crystal Lake.

The appointment of Rung to be the first person from outside the Shaw family to be president of Shaw Media is an important milestone, CEO Tom Shaw said.

“John has demonstrated the ability to thrive in a highly successful, professionally managed family-company environment," Shaw said. “We believe that our unique business and family legacy will be in capable hands."

Rung has been with the company for 16 years in a variety of management roles. As president, he will be the principal operating officer of the company, responsible for all operating activities, including revenue growth, strategic development, and management of financial goals.

Shaw, 65, who has been with the company for 43 years, is a fifth-generation member of the family that has continued to own and operate Shaw Media in the 162 years since its founding.

Shaw was elected president and CEO in 1993; he will continue as CEO in the role of the corporation’s principal executive officer, supervising its business and affairs.

Rung said he was excited to take his new responsibility.

“... I thank Tom Shaw and our board of directors for their faith in our leadership team,” Rung said. “Shaw Media has a storied past and an exciting future. We have a talented team of people who are committed to growth through excellence. Shaw’s proud legacy will continue.”

Rung resides in Johnsburg with his wife and three children. Shaw resides in Dixon with his wife and the youngest of their six children.

Shaw Media, founded in 1851, publishes more than 80 print and online titles in Illinois and Iowa.